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Free Cancer Screenings

Ten Minutes That Could Save Your Life

Norman Regional Health System Only in State to Offer Free Screenings During Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, Saturday, April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon

Just because you can’t feel it, doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Just ask the more than 50,000 Americans who were diagnosed with cancers of the head and neck last year. Unfortunately, many Americans do not recognize the symptoms of these life-threatening diseases, which include cancers of the oral cavity, larynx and pharynx, and by the time they are diagnosed, for some, it’s too late.

Oral, head and neck cancers claim approximately 12,000 lives per year. However, there is hope; if diagnosed early, these cancers can be more easily treated without significant complications, and the chances of survival greatly increase. To catch these types of cancers earlier, Norman Regional is the only hospital in Oklahoma to offer free screenings during Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week.

Who should get tested?

Every adult. Tobacco and alcohol users traditionally have been considered the populations at greatest risk for these cancers. However, oral cancer cases are on the rise in younger adults who do not smoke, and recent research indicates this development is due partly to the increase of the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, a cancer-causing infection that can be transmitted by oral sex. HPV-related oral cancers are more difficult to detect because these cancers usually occur on the back of the tongue or on the tonsils, providing even more reason to get screened regularly.

What are the potential warning signs of oral cancers?

The signs and symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed. However, there are a few visible signs associated with these cancers that require immediate attention, including:

Red or white patches in the mouth that last more than two weeks

Change in voice or hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks

Sore throat that does not subside

Pain or swelling in the mouth or neck that does not subside

Lump in the neck

Ear pain

Difficulty speaking or swallowing

Difficulty breathing

If you have any of the above warning signs, do not wait for the free screenings. Seek medical attention immediately.

How can I get screened locally?

Norman Regional will offer free oral cancer screenings in observance of the 14th annual Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week (OHANCAW) on Saturday, April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at Norman Regional Hospital’s Education Center, 901 N. Porter. The screening is painless and only takes about 10 minutes. Doctors performing the screenings will be Jeremy Moore, MD, board certified in otolaryngology; Robert Borden, MD, board certified in otolaryngology and Vincent Montgomery, DMD, board certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery. To be screened you must register before this event by calling HealthLink at (405) 440-8802.

Why should I get screened?

If the above stats weren’t reason enough, know that the screening is quick, painless and free, and it’s right around the corner. Given the current state of the economy and rising health care costs, take advantage of the opportunity to benefit from this preventive health measure at no charge by taking 10 minutes to do something that could save your life. Early diagnosis and treatment improves outcomes and chances of survival, particularly for individuals with HPV-related oral cancers. Please contact us at (405) 440-8802 to sign up for your free oral cancer screening today.